The 10 Best Outdoor Cat Enclosures

Reviews

Nala and Company Outdoor Pet Enclosure for Cats
 

Our top option is the Nala and Company The Cat House Outdoor Pet Enclosure, a small outdoor cat enclosure that may be used in a variety of circumstances.

It’s collapsible and portable, and once put up, it’s 43″ tall, 23″ wide, and 18″ tall, so it’s not meant for long-term usage and is best suited to less active cats.

However, its modest size makes it an excellent choice for travel, RVs, camping, or if you simply don’t have enough space for an outside cat enclosure.

It can accommodate a single adult cat with room for bedding, a tiny litter box, a toy or two, and a set of bowls, but it’s also useful for controlling kitten litters.

The top and sides are made of mesh, allowing your cat a 360-degree perspective, making it appear much larger than it is.

Because of the clear, open perspective, it’s also an excellent choice for introducing existing pets and new pets, or for introducing your cat to a new location.

When you aren’t using it to cage your cat, you may leave it inside with the door open for your cat to use as a bed. It has a pop-up design that makes it simple to set up, and to collapse it, simply fold it flat.

It includes a travel pouch for simple storage and transportation. It’s also simple to clean, due to PVC mesh and a wipe-clean tarp bottom.

Another benefit of the mesh is that it keeps out all but the smallest bugs. To keep the door closed, it has a zipper closing with two pulls and a security clip. If you want to keep it open, you can do so using the Velcro tab.

Nala and Friends Key Features of the Cat House Outdoor Pet Enclosure:

• The compact size accommodates one adult cat.
• Complete visibility
• Excellent for short-term use
• Portable and foldable
• Zipper closing is secure.

 

ToysOpoly Premium Pet Playpen is the best portable outdoor cat enclosure
 

Many portable outdoor cat enclosure manufacturers make tiny, flimsy enclosures in an attempt to make their portable cat enclosures lighter and easier to transport.

These enclosures do not provide the space that cats and their belongings require to stay in the outdoor cat enclosure for more than an hour or two. There are no such compromises with the ToysOpoly Premium Pet Playpen.

Even if you don’t intend to travel with it, this outdoor cat enclosure is ideal if you want to be able to change the location of your outdoor cat enclosure, don’t want or have room for a permanent outdoor cat enclosure, or want to test out different locations to see how your cat reacts before installing something permanent.

With a width of 45 inches and a height of 22 inches, this octagonal outdoor cat cage is quite large. The enclosure’s footprint is just under 10 feet, leaving enough of area for a litter box, bedding, and play space.

It even features an external water feeder bottle holder, saving important interior space from a water bowl that could be accidently tipped. External pouches allow you to store additional goods without taking up interior space.

The top and bottom of the enclosure are removable to make collapsing it easier, but you should absolutely make sure they’re zipped on before placing your cat inside to ensure your kitty is safely contained.

The bottom is water-resistant, so you may place the enclosure on wet ground without concern, while the top is partially mesh for ventilation and partially solid fabric for sun protection.

The two doors are entirely mesh, and each of the other six side panels has a mesh window for vision and ventilation. Both doors include zipper closures for further security.

With an interior steel frame, reinforced corners, and covered seams, the enclosure is extremely durable.

ToysOpoly Premium Pet Playpen Highlights:

• Simple to assemble, collapse, transport, and clean
• Spacious
• Extremely long-lasting
• It includes a travel bag and four anchors.
• Blue, black, maroon, and pink are all available.

 

Fooubaby Pop Up Outside Pet Enclosure
 

Do you want an outside cat enclosure but don’t have a lot of money? The Fooubaby Pop Up Outside Pet Enclosure may be ideal for you and your cat.

It’s very comparable to the top pick and even a little bit larger, albeit the materials and construction aren’t quite at the same quality, which explains the price difference.

Still, if you’re looking for a low-cost solution that won’t be used regularly, this is an excellent choice.

It is 47.25 inches wide, 24.8 inches deep, and 19.68 inches tall, with enough space for an adult cat, as well as bowls, bedding, a few toys, and a tiny litter box.

The sides and top of this outdoor cat cage, like our top pick, are mesh, keeping bugs out and allowing a 360-degree view that makes the enclosure appear larger than it is.

The pop-up design makes it simple to set up and deflate, and it comes with a carrying case. The tarp-style bottom is simple to clean. The built-in ties can be used to keep the zipper closure door open.

Because of its small size, this outdoor cat enclosure is suitable for many of the same purposes as our top pick, including travel, exposing new or old pets to new environments, and containing kitten litters.

It’s also fantastic for determining how much your cat enjoys the outside and where they might want an outdoor cat cage before committing to a larger, more permanent (and more expensive) solution.

Key Features of the Fooubaby Pop Up Outside Pet Enclosure:

• The compact size accommodates one adult cat.
• complete visibility
• Excellent for short-term use
• Portable and foldable
• There are four mesh and edge color options available.

 

Best Cat Run: BestPet Pet Playpen with Roof
 

All of the outdoor cat enclosures we’ve discussed so far are fantastic, but what if you want to give your energetic kitten extra space to play? Then you’ll require an outside cat run, such as the BestPet Pet Playpen with Roof.

It was created for dogs, particularly huge breeds, but it is also quite safe for cats. It is 3.75 feet wide and 7.5 feet deep, with a total area of nearly 30 feet because it must accommodate huge breed dogs.

It also stands 5.8 feet tall. That’s enough area for all the necessities for cats, as well as a cat home for naps and play structures like tunnels and ladders, with room to spare.

If you need additional area for your cat, the panel architecture of this feline playpen allows you to link numerous cages together to create a bigger space.

It’s also extremely long-lasting due to its solid, heavy-duty structure. Rust-resistant steel is used throughout the enclosure, including the high tensile-strength wire that fills each panel.

To further protect against rust and corrosion, the steel is coated with epoxy. The enclosure has a slanted roof to prevent debris and water from accumulating. The roof features a waterproof cover to protect the dogs within from the weather.

The cover is also UV resistant, so you won’t have to worry about it breaking, peeling, or otherwise becoming harmed from prolonged sun exposure.

Key Features of the BestPet Pet Playpen with Roof:

• Large enough to accommodate climbing structures.
• For even more space, it may be connected to additional BestPet Pet Playpens.
• Sloped roof that is waterproof and UV resistant
• One-piece full-length door
• Simple to build and clean

 

The Advantek Pet Gazebo with Reversible Cover
 

The Advantek Pet Gazebo with Reversible Cover rounds out our top picks.

With a width and height of 7.5 feet (approximately 10 inches longer than a conventional door frame), this outdoor cat enclosure is ideal for many cats, provides plenty of space to play, and is tall enough to accommodate climbing equipment.

It also has an octagonal form and panel construction, making it simple to assemble without the use of tools and allowing you to join numerous Pet Gazebos together for a bigger outside enclosure.

Simply unhook one side of a single panel from one Pet Gazebo and reattach it to the opposite side of the aperture on the second Pet Gazebo, making a brief pathway between the two.

Then, using Advantek’s nylon corridor cover, provide shade in the walkway between the gazebos and keep your cat from climbing out. You can connect as many Pet Gazebos as you want in nearly any combination.

The Pet Gazebo’s roof is a weather-resistant polyurethane reversible cover that is brown on one side and white on the other, and it easily connects to the Pet Gazebo with ball ties.

Each Pet Gazebo has a full-length door and an access window that allows you to reach into the cage without entirely opening the entrance and risking Kitty escaping.

The access window securely locks shut, but it can also be left open to allow your cat access to a window into your house or other outdoor locations.

Furthermore, Advantek sells a plethora of accessories to go with the Pet Gazebo in order to make it as comfortable and secure for your cat as possible, such as ground stakes, a sunshade that can be attached to the side of the Pet Gazebo, replacement covers in a variety of different colors, and even a water mister with automatic temperature control to keep your cat cool.

The Pet Gazebo is now available in three, four, and five-foot versions from Advantek.

Key Features of the Advantek Pet Gazebo with Reversible Cover:

• Massive height and width of 7.5 feet
• Reversible weather-resistant polyurethane cover
• It can be connected to other Pet Gazebos.
• Window of access
• A plethora of accessories

Who Should Invest in an Outdoor Cat Enclosure?

An outdoor cat enclosure can be a terrific buy for almost any cat owner because almost all cats will like it, but there are a few scenarios where an outdoor cat enclosure might be very useful.

Just make sure to use an effective flea treatment whenever you allow your cat to go outside.

Cats who are continually knocking things over, jumping and climbing in areas they shouldn’t, trying to get out the door as people come or leave, or meowing excessively are typically bored. Introduce them to an outside cat enclosure and let your cat access every day, and watch their behavioral issues fade away.

Imagine how much your cat will enjoy the view and napping possibility of actually being outside if they prefer looking out the window or lying in the sun.

Outdoor cat enclosures are also an excellent method to provide more space for cats in tiny or multi-cat homes, as well as to give cats a break from one another.

If you have a shy cat who enjoys being entertained, outdoor cat enclosures can give a more exciting getaway from the crowd and likely shelters them from noise better than simply closing them in a bedroom.

Outdoor cat enclosures can be extremely beneficial in transitioning outdoor cats to an indoor lifestyle or in allowing indoor cats that were previously full or part-time outdoor cats with safe, restricted access to the outdoors.

Finally, perhaps you simply want your cat to be able to spend time outside with you in safety. Outdoor cat enclosures are the ideal solution for this.

Consider the Following Features

A few key components should be present in an outdoor cat enclosure. Here are some things to think about when choosing an outside cage for your cat:

Size and design

Consider how many cats need to fit in the enclosure and how much space you have for the enclosure itself to get a good starting point for size.

A higher cat shelter with climbing features and platforms offers more square footage in a smaller footprint, making it ideal for tiny yards, patios, and balconies.

Some cats simply enjoy climbing or hanging out in high locations, and these kinds of outdoor cat enclosures are particularly excellent for assisting young cats in getting plenty of exercise.

Some cats, on the other hand, like to prowl over the ground, and senior cats may find it difficult to navigate cages that demand a lot of jumping or climbing. In these circumstances, a longer, broader outside cat enclosure may be preferable.

In addition, make sure there’s enough room in the outside cat enclosure for anything else you wish to include, such as water, toys, bedding, extra shelter, and a litter box.

Placement

You’ll want to set it somewhere calm so your cat won’t be startled, but placement is mostly subject on your space and tastes.

Taller, narrower outdoor cat cages, as previously noted, are ideal for balconies, porches, patios, and other tiny yards since they take up less space. Longer, broader enclosures are ideal for yards with more open area.

Some outdoor cat enclosures may be put against an open window to allow your cat to come and go as they want, which is a really useful feature if you have a conveniently located window. (If you must transport the cat inside, we recommend utilizing a cat harness between your home and the enclosure to keep Kitty safe.)

Portability

Portability isn’t necessary for everyone, although it can be useful. However, it usually necessitates a trade-off.

Portable options that can be placed virtually anywhere and even taken on the go, plus they’re generally compact enough that they can be used indoors as well if a cat needs to be contained for some reason, but they’re not as large as more permanent options and they’re not meant to be left up long term, so you’ll need to add the necessary toys and accessories every time you want to use the portable outdoor cat enclosure.

Drainage and ventilation are essential

Moisture should not pool at the bottom of the cage, and there should be adequate ventilation to keep the enclosure from becoming too hot and to offer your cat with constant fresh air (and odors).

These characteristics not only keep your cat secure and comfortable, but they also make cleaning outdoor cat enclosures faster and easier.

Durability and safety

Any outdoor cat enclosure, as well as everything that goes within, should be made specifically for that purpose.

Items built for indoor usage will not withstand the dampness, UV rays, and wind that items designed for outdoor use would.

This damage necessitates more regular replacement of the products, but it also poses a safety concern to your cat. Furthermore, ensure that the enclosure will entirely enclose your cat.

It should be entirely covered and have secure fasteners that your cat cannot undo. Any mesh or wire should be impossible for your cat to chew or claw through.

FAQs

Do cats enjoy having outdoor enclosures?

Cats enjoy being outside, therefore most enjoy outdoor enclosures, and you’ll appreciate the fact that an outdoor cat enclosure allows them to enjoy the outdoors safely.

However, cats may require some time to adjust to an outdoor enclosure, so don’t be alarmed if your cat appears nervous at first.

Placing the outdoor cat enclosure in a calm area with plenty of things to look at, as well as putting things that your cat enjoys inside, such as toys and a nice bed, will help ensure that your cat enjoys their outdoor cat enclosure.

What should I keep in my outdoor cat enclosure?

Consider what your cat enjoys doing indoors and incorporate these features, as well as a few new things they may not have encountered, to create an outdoor cat enclosure that is a real feline heaven.

Toys, (cat-safe) plants, scratching surfaces, a place to sunbathe in the sun, a place to sleep in the shade, tunnels, jumping platforms, climbing surfaces, bedding, and other items are common additions to an outdoor cat enclosure.

Of course, you’ll want to make sure your cat always has access to a comfortable environment, a litter box, and clean water.

A little water fountain is an excellent approach to provide access to the latter. An outdoor cat home placed inside provides your cat with a warm, dry place to go within their outdoor habitat.

Using outdoor-safe cat furniture can also make it easier to make more significant adjustments to the layout of the enclosure, even if you’re not a natural tool user.

What is the ideal size for an outdoor cat enclosure?

Two square yards of traversable space per cat is a fair general rule for the size of an outdoor cat enclosure. In actuality, though, there are numerous elements that can indicate whether you need more room or can get by with less.

Young cats, active breeds like the Savannah cat, and cats with extremely active personalities, for example, will demand more space.

You can usually get away with less space if you have an elderly cat, a calm breed like the Ragdoll, or a kitty couch potato.

Furthermore, if your cat will be in the cat enclosure for extended amounts of time, you will want to offer it more space, but if it will just be in there for a short period of time, you won’t need as much.

Cats that get along well and don’t mind sharing territory will require less room in multi-cat houses.

You probably don’t want to put cats who don’t get along in an enclosed place to avoid fighting, so you’ll only need a cat enclosure large enough for one cat at a time, though you may want many enclosures so that each cat may enjoy the outdoors at the same time.

What is the price of an outside cat enclosure?

There are outdoor cat enclosures for any budget, however the majority cost between $75 and $150.

Portable outdoor cat enclosures are often less expensive, costing less than $50, because they are smaller in size, are not meant for long-term use, and do not include shelters or climbing structures.

High-end outdoor cat cages can start at $200 and go up from there, but you can also find ones that are three times that price or more.

This is because higher-end outdoor cat enclosures are larger in size, include built-in platforms or climbing structures, and are designed to be permanent structures.

Conclusion

The products Nala and Company Outdoor Pet Enclosure for Cats and ToysOpoly Premium Pet Playpen are the most well-known and trustworthy after extensive investigation and testing.

We at BestForPets (bestforpets.org) hope that our roundup of the best outdoor cat enclosures serves as a useful resource in your quest for the most suitable product for your cat.